Floating Caisson Platform for Offshore Wind Turbines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current maritime structures face challenges in constructing large, high-strength platforms for offshore wind turbines due to limitations in existing construction methods, which result in high costs, long implementation times, and maintenance issues, particularly with prefabricated systems that are prone to joint failures and require extensive auxiliary means.
Innovation Solution
A floating structure based on port caisson construction technology, utilizing sliding formwork to create a monolithic concrete structure with distributed load transfer and minimal reinforcement, allowing for efficient construction, assembly, and commissioning with reduced maintenance needs and environmental impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If prefabricated systems are used for construction, then construction speed is improved, but structural reliability deteriorates due to joint failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple prefabricated caisson elements into a unified monolithic structure through post-tensioning cables and grout injection. The cables are tensioned to compress the caissons together, while grout fills the joints to create a continuous concrete mass, eliminating weak joint interfaces while maintaining rapid prefabricated construction benefits
2Power
If large platform dimensions are increased to support higher power wind turbines, then energy production capacity is improved, but construction complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The large platform is segmented into multiple standardized caisson modules that can be constructed independently using identical forms and reinforcement patterns. This modular segmentation allows parallel construction of multiple units, simplifies logistics, and enables assembly of large platforms from smaller, manageable components with consistent design details
Solution Approach 2:
The caisson design employs universal, reusable formwork and reinforcement configurations that can be applied to caissons of various sizes. The standardized components and construction procedures can serve multiple functions across different platform configurations, reducing overall construction complexity while supporting various power capacities
3Strength
If monolithic concrete construction is used to ensure structural strength, then fatigue resistance is improved, but construction time increases compared to prefabricated systems
Solution Approach 1:
The caisson elements are pre-cast with embedded post-tensioning cable ducts and reinforcement arrangements during off-site fabrication. This preliminary preparation of the concrete elements allows the actual monolithic assembly to proceed quickly, as the critical structural components are already in place and ready for final connection and grouting
4Stability of the object's composition
If platform size and weight are increased to reduce static angle of inclination, then stability is improved, but ease of dismantling and relocation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The platform achieves stability through dynamic ballast water management rather than fixed heavy mass. Water can be pumped between caissons and overboard to adjust weight distribution and achieve desired stability characteristics. This dynamic ballasting system provides the necessary stability for operation while maintaining the ability to relocate or dismantle the platform by simply pumping out the ballast water
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables rapid, cost-effective construction and assembly of large, durable platforms with reduced maintenance requirements, enhanced stability, and increased energy production capacity, while minimizing environmental impact and logistical challenges.
Implementation Method 1
a floating structure based on port caisson construction technology
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a structure (2) for supporting a wind turbine tower (1) provided with a housing (7) for fitting therein the foot of the tower (1), a main axis (Γ) being defined on the platform (2) which coincides with a main axis of the tower (1), and which comprises a body with a constant cross-section and internal walls (8) and intermediate walls (10) joined by internal radial ribs (11) perpendicular to the internal wall (8) whose plane passes through the main axis (Γ), such that at the intermediate wall (10) first joining nodes (12) are defined between the intermediate wall (10) and radial ribs (11), the intermediate wall (10) and an external wall (9) being joined by reticular ribs (14 and 15). This structure provides an optimal transmission of forces. The invention likewise relates to methods for manufacturing, assembling and installing the structure.